Brain health tips: how to keep your brain healthy as you age

7 brain-boosting habits to help you stay mentally sharp and happy.

Why is it you can remember song lyrics from the ’80s but struggle to recall your computer password each morning? It happens to us all, but these brain blips can make you worry about maintaining your mental sharpness as you get older.

While your brain may change as you age, and some forgetfulness is common, there’s a lot you can do to keep your brain in good nick and give yourself the best chance of it staying that way for as long as possible. 

Some of the brain changes we associate with getting older are linked to lifestyle factors we can control. The impact of these lifestyle choices can be significant beneficial. Around 45 per cent of dementia cases could be prevented by adopting different lifestyle habits, including treating depression, engaging in brain-stimulating activities, lowering ‘bad’ LDL cholesterol, staying physically active and quitting smoking, according to The Lancet.

And healthy habits like keeping fit don’t just slow cognitive decline; people who exercise regularly have better mental health and lower rates of mental illness. 

Cognitive changes as we age

If you’ve forgotten the name of a favourite movie or become frustrated because a friend’s name is right on the tip of your tongue, it can be frustrating. If you find yourself thinking, “Why can’t I think clearly anymore?”, you might be pleased to know there are answers, and sometimes even solutions.

Knowing which brain changes are a normal part of ageing, and which might be red flags, can help you act early to maintain brain health for longer.

Cognitive decline is a gradual reduction in mental function, affecting areas such as memory, thinking speed and reasoning. 

When these changes become more noticeable and interfere with your daily life, your doctor may diagnose dementia. Symptoms of dementia include changes in mood, memory loss, confusion and changes in your behaviour or personality. 

Some memory loss may be caused by many factors other than cognitive decline, including some medications, stress, depression, alcohol use, vitamin B12 deficiency, menopause and sleep apnoea.

Proven ways to maintain brain health as you age

There’s a lot you can do to help your brain stay healthy, and you don’t have to wait until you’re older. Dementia Australia reports that the below lifestyle factors contribute to 35–50 per cent of dementia cases worldwide:

  • Physical inactivity
  • Hearing loss
  • Sleep disturbance
  • Poor diet 
  • Depression
  • Social isolation.

The habits you build in your forties can contribute to better brain health for the rest of your life. Here’s how:

Protecting your brain for the future

Following these guidelines can help give yourself the best chance of maintaining good brain health as you age. You can also help by protecting your hearing, vision and doing what you can to stay safe from brain injuries – for example, by wearing a helmet when you’re riding a bike.

Keeping your brain sharp as you age doesn’t have to mean dramatic life changes. Small, consistent actions can make a big difference as you get older. 

 

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